Reflection from Connie

Reflection – Connie Yu                                     June, 2010

        I came to Macau as part of the Teaching Across Borders program offered by the University of Calgary in Canada.  The goal of the program is to allow Master of Teaching students to achieve a greater international perspective on education and to understand what it is like to teach in a unique cultural setting.  After living and teaching in Macau for the past five months, I can say with confidence that this has truly been one of the best experiences of my life. Knowing very little about Macau before I came, I was quickly captured by the beauty and history of this small but enchanting city.  The architecture is breathtaking and the food of course is delicious!  However, what I love the most about Macau is its simple and relaxed atmosphere.  Now what I call my home away from home, living in Macau has taught me what it means to embrace a lifestyle different from my own and to take time to appreciate everything the city has to offer.

Without a doubt, teaching at St. Joseph’s or CDSJ has been the highlight of my time here.   I was asked to teach Primary 2 English as well as help facilitate Kindergarten and Primary 6 English activity classes.  Since I have never taught English as a second language before, I was both nervous and excited to get into the classroom.  Meeting my class for the first time was a memorable moment for me.  The Primary 2 students welcomed my presence immediately and seemed eager to learn more about the English language.  Although communication in English was difficult at times, their energy and interest in learning helped overcome any obstacles we encountered.  What I hope my students have come to understand is that learning can be exiting, fun and can even take place outside the classroom. Over time, I have noticed many students feeling more confident in their English abilities.  Students became less shy about speaking English and were eager and willing to try.  Although their vocabulary may still be limited, it was exciting to hear my students try out new words and phrases they have learned both in and out of the classroom.  The students have taught me more things than I can imagine and it is this cooperative learning as teacher and student that has provided me with the greatest reward.   

Through my participation with CDSJ, I have met some remarkable people.  Everyone has been extremely kind and generous in taking the time to help familiarize myself with both the school and the city.  The team of teachers and staff members at CDSJ looked forward to the opportunity to converse with us as a means to practice and improve upon their English. This desire to always continue learning sets a good example for the students and it is evident in the children’s positive attitude towards English classes.  All the instructor’s passion for teaching is undeniable and it is clear that CDSJ is a school that values building strong and lasting relationships with their students and staff members.

 

        I feel extremely grateful that I have been given this opportunity to be a part of St. Joseph’s team of educators.  Through my time here I have experienced tremendous growth as a teacher and as a person.  Although there are many differences between Macau and Canada, it is these differences that have encouraged me to appreciate teaching and learning in a new way. Although I will be returning to Canada at the end of the term, it won’t be long until I call Macau my home once again as I have signed on to continue teaching at CDSJ for the upcoming school year!  I look forward to the experiences that lie ahead and I can’t wait to start teaching in September!